JP7715768B2 - A system and server that acquires and amplifies sensor information - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to a system that acquires sensor information in a specified area and/or amplifies sound toward that specified area, and a server that controls this system.

In recent years, sensors such as cameras have been installed in designated areas such as urban areas and shopping districts to acquire various sensor information (e.g., videos, photos, etc.) related to the designated area, and various services have been provided using this information. Additionally, multiple public address systems have been installed in designated areas to amplify designated sounds directed at people and others present in the designated area (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-95064

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in installing sensor devices and loudspeaker equipment in large areas such as urban areas and shopping districts to provide various services to people in those areas. In order to provide useful services over a large area, it is preferable to install sensor devices and loudspeaker equipment throughout that area. For example, it is preferable to install sensor devices and loudspeaker equipment throughout the area, along the routes of people in urban areas, shopping districts, etc., or in their vicinity. However, to install these devices throughout a large area, it is necessary to secure installation space in many locations within that area, and it is difficult to secure a large amount of installation space within a large area.

The purpose of this disclosure is to realize a system that can provide useful services related to a specific area by installing sensor devices and loudspeaker equipment throughout a specific area where people gather, such as an urban area or shopping district.

The system disclosed herein comprises multiple sensor devices, multiple public address systems, and a server. The multiple sensor devices are installed on at least some of the utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines installed on the utility poles in a predetermined area, and acquire predetermined sensor information in the predetermined area. The multiple public address systems are installed on at least some of the utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines, and amplify sound toward the predetermined area. The server controls the multiple sensor devices and the multiple public address systems.

In the above system, the server manages the installation locations of multiple sensor devices and multiple public address systems within a specified area. The server acquires sensor information from one of the multiple sensor devices and associates the sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device that acquired it. The server also selects a public address system installed at a specific position or within a partial area within the specified area and commands the selected public address system to amplify its sound.

In the above system, multiple sensor devices that acquire sensor information in a specified area and multiple loudspeaker devices that amplify the information in the specified area are installed on at least some of the multiple utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines installed on the multiple utility poles in the specified area. Utility poles and overhead lines are generally installed throughout a specified area where people gather, such as in urban areas or shopping districts. Utility poles and overhead lines are particularly installed on or near roads and other routes along which people move. Therefore, by installing sensor devices and loudspeaker devices on utility poles and/or overhead lines, it is possible to easily install sensor devices and loudspeaker devices throughout a specified area. In particular, it is possible to easily install sensor information and loudspeaker devices throughout a specified area, such as in roads and other locations along which people may move.

In the above system, the server manages the installation locations of multiple sensor devices and multiple loudspeaker devices. The server acquires sensor information from any of the multiple sensor devices and associates the acquired sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device that acquired it. The server also selects loudspeaker devices installed at specific positions or partial areas within a specified area and commands the selected loudspeaker devices to amplify the sound. This allows the server to provide a variety of useful services related to the specified area, such as services using sensor information acquired in the specified area and services that amplify various sounds to people present in the specified area.

By installing sensor devices and loudspeaker devices on utility poles and/or overhead lines installed in a specified area, it is possible to install sensor devices and loudspeaker devices throughout the target area (i.e., the specified area) for acquiring sensor information and amplifying audio. As a result, a system can be realized that can provide a variety of useful services related to the specified area.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the system. FIG. 2 shows an example of installation of the loudspeaker sensor device on a utility pole and an overhead wire. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an installation state of loudspeaker sensor devices in a predetermined area. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the loudspeaker sensor device. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the server. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the sensor device management information. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the loudspeaker management information. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a first example of system operation. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a sound pressure distribution map. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a second example of system operation. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the first screen for selecting a loudspeaker. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the second screen for setting the amplification date and time. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a third example of system operation. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating the third operation example. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of system operation. FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically illustrating the fourth operation example. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a fifth example of system operation. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a sixth example of system operation. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the configuration of a system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing another example of installation of a sensor device and a loudspeaker.

1. First Embodiment (1) System Overview The system 100 will now be described. The system 100 is a system for acquiring various sensor information and/or amplifying predetermined sounds toward a predetermined area A, such as a predetermined area, an urban area within the predetermined area, or a shopping district or other area used by many people (referred to as the predetermined area A). The system 100 can provide various services based on the acquired sensor information, and amplify sound services for the entire predetermined area A or specific locations or areas within the predetermined area A. Specific examples of these services will be described in detail later.

(2) System Configuration The configuration of the system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the system 100. The system 100 includes a plurality of loudspeaker sensor devices 10 and a server 20.

Multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 are installed in a specified area A where loudspeaker activity and/or the acquisition of various sensor information is desired, and loudspeaker devices 10 loudspeaker devices 11 collect sensor information and acquire various sensor information related to the specified area A. As described below, loudspeaker sensor devices 10 are a system that integrates sensor devices 11 that collect sensor information and loudspeaker devices 13 that amplify sound.

The multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 are installed using public infrastructure facilities located in a specified area A. Specifically, the multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 are installed on at least some of the multiple utility poles P located in the specified area A, and/or on at least some of the overhead lines L that are installed by being strung across the multiple utility poles P. The overhead lines L are, for example, power lines that supply power, or communication lines for wired communication.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, one loudspeaker sensor device 10 is provided on each of all or some of the utility poles P, and one loudspeaker sensor device 10 is provided on each of all or some of the overhead lines L strung between two utility poles P. FIG. 2 shows an example of installation of loudspeaker sensor devices 10 on utility poles P and overhead lines L.

A public infrastructure facility comprising multiple utility poles P and overhead lines L strung across the multiple utility poles P is installed throughout a specified area A to provide power and communications to all buildings, factories, homes, etc. within the specified area A. The utility poles P are installed, for example, along roads in the specified area A, and the overhead lines L are installed along the installation direction of the multiple utility poles P (i.e., along the roads) and from the utility poles P to the buildings, factories, homes, etc.

Therefore, by installing loudspeaker sensor devices 10 on utility poles P and/or overhead wires L installed in a predetermined area A, multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 can be installed throughout the predetermined area A. For example, as shown in Figure 3, loudspeaker sensor devices 10 can be installed along almost all roads in the predetermined area A. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the installation state of loudspeaker sensor devices 10 in the predetermined area A.

In this way, by installing the loudspeaker sensor device 10 using public infrastructure facilities (i.e., utility poles P and/or overhead lines L) installed in the specified area A, there is no need to secure a large amount of installation space in area A for the loudspeaker sensor device 10, and the loudspeaker sensor device 10 can be easily installed throughout the specified area A without having to install additional poles or other fastening devices for fixing the loudspeaker sensor device 10.

Furthermore, the roads located in the specified area A are the traffic lines of people and others present in the specified area A. Therefore, by installing the loudspeaker sensor device 10 along the roads located in the specified area A, the system 100 can obtain sensor information about the many people present in the specified area A and can also provide loudspeakers to many people.

Furthermore, electric power is generally supplied to the overhead lines L installed using utility poles P. Therefore, by installing the loudspeaker sensor device 10 on the utility poles P and/or overhead lines L, the power to operate the loudspeaker sensor device 10 can be obtained from the overhead lines L. In other words, the power for the loudspeaker sensor device 10 can be easily secured without, for example, installing a separate power supply facility.

The loudspeaker sensor device 10 is connected to a network N. The loudspeaker sensor device 10 is capable of communicating with a server 20 via the network N. The network N may be, for example, the Internet or a wide area LAN.

The server 20 is a computer system consisting of a CPU, storage devices (RAM, ROM, SSD, hard disk, etc.), various interfaces (e.g., communication interfaces), etc. The server 20 is connected to a network N and is capable of communicating with each of the multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10.

The server 20 manages multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 installed in a specified area A. As described below, the server 20 manages the installation locations of the multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10. When sensor information is acquired from one of the multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10, the server 20 associates the sensor information with the installation location of the loudspeaker sensor device 10 (sensor device 11) that acquired the sensor information, and the time (date, time, etc.) when the sensor information was acquired by the loudspeaker sensor device 10. This makes it possible to identify the location and time at which the sensor information was acquired.

Furthermore, when the server 20 wishes to amplify a sound to a specific position or partial area within the specified area A, it selects a loudspeaker sensor device 10 (loudspeaker device 13) installed in that specific position or partial area and instructs the selected loudspeaker device to amplify the sound. This allows the sound to be amplified to any position or area within the specified area A.

The system 100 may include a user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 is connected to the network N and is capable of communicating with the server 20. The user terminal 30 may also be capable of communicating with the loudspeaker sensor device 10. The user terminal 30 is, for example, an information processing device such as a personal computer, tablet terminal, smartphone, or mobile terminal. By accessing the server 20 using the user terminal 30, the user can receive various services from the server 20 via the user terminal 30.

(3) Configuration of the loudspeaker sensor device Next, the configuration of the loudspeaker sensor device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the loudspeaker sensor device 10. The loudspeaker sensor device 10 has a sensor device 11, a loudspeaker device 13, and a power supply unit 15. In other words, the loudspeaker sensor device 10 is a device in which the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker device 13 are integrated together.

The sensor device 11 acquires sensor information at the installation location of the loudspeaker sensor device 10 and transmits the acquired sensor information to the server 20. The sensor device 11 has a sensor 111, a data generation unit 113, and a first communication unit 115. The sensor 111 performs various measurements at the installation location of the loudspeaker sensor device 10. The sensor 111 is, for example, a CCD sensor that captures images of the area around the installation location of the loudspeaker sensor device 10, an acoustic sensor that measures sound pressure around the installation location, or a weather sensor that acquires weather information such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed around the installation location.

The data generation unit 113 is hardware (electrical circuitry) that generates sensor information from various measurement results obtained by the sensor 111. If the sensor 111 is a CCD sensor, the data generation unit 113 generates image data as sensor information from the information acquired by the CCD sensor. If the sensor 111 is an acoustic sensor, the data generation unit 113 generates sound pressure values measured by the acoustic sensor as sensor information. The data generation unit 113 also generates sensor information in the form of audio data from sounds measured by the acoustic sensor. If the sensor 111 is a weather sensor, the data generation unit 113 generates sensor information in the form of data of values such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed detected by the weather sensor. Note that the above functions of the data generation unit 113 may be implemented by a program executable by the sensor device 11.

The first communication unit 115 is hardware (communication circuit) that communicates with other devices, such as the server 20, via the network N. The first communication unit 115 transmits the sensor information generated by the data generation unit 113 to the server 20.

The public address device 13 amplifies sound around the installation location of the public address sensor device 10. The public address device 13 has a speaker 131, a public address control unit 133, and a second communication unit 135. The speaker 131 converts audio signals into sound waves and amplifies the sound around the installation location of the public address sensor device 10. The speaker 131 may be an omnidirectional speaker, or a directional speaker that has directionality toward the sidewalk or roadway.

The loudspeaker control unit 133 is a circuit (electrical circuit) that converts audio data received from the server 20 via the second communication unit 135 into an audio signal and outputs it to the speaker 131. Note that the above functions of the loudspeaker control unit 133 may be realized by a program executable by the loudspeaker device 13.

The second communication unit 135 is hardware (communication circuitry) that communicates with other devices, such as the server 20, via the network N. The second communication unit 135 receives audio data to be amplified from the server 20.

The power supply unit 15 supplies the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 with power to drive them. The power supply unit 15 of the loudspeaker sensor device 10, which is installed on an overhead line L (e.g., a power line) to which high-voltage power is supplied, can be composed of, for example, a coil that detects the magnetic field generated when current flows through the overhead line L, and an electrical circuit that converts the power generated by the coil that detects the magnetic field into power that can be used by the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13.

On the other hand, the power supply unit 15 of the loudspeaker sensor device 10, which is installed on a utility pole P or an overhead line L (e.g., a communication line) supplied with low-voltage power, can be configured, for example, by an electrical circuit that converts reduced-voltage power supplied from a voltage converter (transformer) installed on the utility pole P, or power from the low-voltage overhead line L, into power that can be used by the sensor device 11 and loudspeaker device 13.

The loudspeaker sensor device 10 may be provided with both a high-voltage power supply unit 15 consisting of the above-mentioned coil and electrical circuit, and a low-voltage power supply unit 15 consisting of the above-mentioned electrical circuit.

(4) Server Configuration The configuration of the server 20 will be described below with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the server 20. The server 20 has an information processing unit 21, a third communication unit 23, and a storage unit 25. The information processing unit 21 is configured by the CPU of the server 20 and executes various information processes related to the server 20.

Specifically, the information processing unit 21 acquires sensor information from one of the multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 (sensor devices 11) and associates the acquired sensor information with the installation location of the loudspeaker sensor device 10 that acquired the sensor information, and the time when the loudspeaker sensor device 10 acquired the sensor information. In other words, when the information processing unit 21 acquires sensor information, it determines at what location within a predetermined area A the sensor information was acquired and when. The information processing unit 21 also performs various information processing using the acquired sensor information and provides services related to the sensor information.

When amplifying sound, the information processing unit 21 determines which position or partial area of the specified area A the sound should be amplified for, and identifies the target sound sensor device 10 (loudspeaker 13) for the sound amplification. The information processing unit 21 transmits the audio data to be amplified to the identified sound sensor device 10 (loudspeaker 13). The above processing by the information processing unit 21 is realized by executing a program stored in the memory unit 25 of the server 20, etc.

The third communication unit 23 is a communication interface for the server 20 and is hardware (communication circuit) that communicates with other devices, such as the loudspeaker sensor device 10, via the network N. The third communication unit 23 is, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) card. The third communication unit 23 receives sensor information from the loudspeaker sensor device 10 (sensor device 11) and transmits audio data to be amplified to the loudspeaker sensor device 10 (loudspeaker device 13).

The memory unit 25 is configured from the storage device of the server 20 and stores various information used by the server 20, sensor information obtained from the loudspeaker sensor device 10, etc. Specifically, the memory unit 25 stores sensor device management information I1 and loudspeaker device management information I2.

Sensor device management information I1 is information for managing sensor devices 11 installed in a specified area A. As shown in FIG. 6, sensor device management information I1 has a first identification information storage column C11, a first installation position storage column C12, and a first address storage column C13. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of sensor device management information I1.

The first identification information storage column C11 stores the identification information of each of the multiple sensor devices 11. The first installation position storage column C12 stores information related to the installation position of each of the multiple sensor devices 11. The information stored in the first installation position storage column C12 is associated with the identification information of the corresponding sensor device 11. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the information stored in the first installation position storage column C12 is an address (city/ward/town/village name and street number) representing the installation position. However, this is not limited to this, and the information stored in the first installation position storage column C12 may also be the latitude and longitude of the installation position. The first address storage column C13 stores an address (e.g., IP address) for accessing each sensor device 11 via the network N. The information stored in the first address storage column C13 is associated with the identification information of the corresponding sensor device 11 and information related to the installation position of the corresponding sensor device 11.

Public address device management information I2 is information for managing public address devices 13 installed in a specified area A. As shown in FIG. 7, public address device management information I2 has a second identification information storage column C21, a second installation position storage column C22, and a second address storage column C23. FIG. 7 shows an example of public address device management information I2.

The second identification information storage column C21 stores the identification information of each of the multiple public address systems 13. The second installation position storage column C22 stores information regarding the installation position of each of the multiple public address systems 13. The information stored in the second installation position storage column C22 is associated with the identification information of the corresponding public address system 13. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the information stored in the second installation position storage column C22 is the address (city, ward, town, or village name and street number) representing the installation location. However, this is not limited to this, and the information stored in the second installation position storage column C22 may also be the latitude and longitude of the installation location.

The second address storage column C23 stores addresses (e.g., IP addresses) for accessing each loudspeaker device 13 via the network N. The information stored in the second address storage column C23 is associated with the identification information of the corresponding loudspeaker device 13 and information regarding the installation location of the corresponding loudspeaker device 13.

In this way, by storing the above-mentioned sensor device management information I1 and loudspeaker management information I2 in the memory unit 25 of the server 20, the server 20 can manage the sensor devices 11 and loudspeaker devices 13 installed in the specified area A. Specifically, the server 20 can manage the installation locations of multiple sensor devices 11 and multiple loudspeaker devices 13 in the specified area A, i.e., the installation locations of each sensor device 11 and loudspeaker device 13.

When sensor information is acquired from a loudspeaker sensor device 10 (sensor device 11), the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 associates the acquired sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device 11 that acquired the sensor information and the time at which the sensor information was acquired. Specifically, when the information processing unit 21 acquires sensor information, it refers to the sensor device management information I1 and identifies the installation location of the sensor device 11 that is the sender of the acquired sensor information from the address of the sender of the acquired sensor information or the identification information of the sensor information. The information processing unit 21 determines that the acquired sensor information was acquired at the installation location identified as described above.

On the other hand, if it is desired to amplify sound at a specific position or partial area within the specified area A, the information processing unit 21 can identify the loudspeaker 13 installed at that specific position or partial area by referencing the loudspeaker management information I2. The information processing unit 21 can select the loudspeaker 13 identified in this way as the loudspeaker 13 to be used for sound amplification, and can instruct the selected loudspeaker 13 to amplify sound. The loudspeaker command to the loudspeaker 13 can be issued, for example, by transmitting sound source data (such as audio data) that is to be amplified by the loudspeaker 13.

(5) System Operation (5-1) Overview The operation of the system 100 having the above configuration will be described below. The system 100 has a plurality of loudspeaker sensor devices 10 that are installed on utility poles P and/or overhead wires L in a predetermined area A, thereby covering the entirety of the predetermined area A. The system 100 also has a server 20 that manages the installation locations of the plurality of loudspeaker sensor devices 10 (sensor devices 11, loudspeaker devices 13). By operating this system 100, various useful services can be provided to people and the like present in the predetermined area A. Examples of services that can be provided by the system 100 will be described below as operation examples of the system 100.

(5-2) Operation example 1
Operation example 1 of the system 100 will be described using Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing operation example 1 of the system 100. In operation example 1, the sensor 111 of each sensor device 11 is an acoustic sensor, and a distribution diagram showing the sound pressure distribution in a predetermined area A is generated based on sound pressure information (sound pressure data) acquired by the acoustic sensor of each sensor device 11.

In operation example 1, first, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 commands the sensor devices 11 of all loudspeaker sensor devices 10 installed in a predetermined area A to measure the sound pressure at the installation location of each sensor device 11 (step S11). Upon receiving this command, the sensor devices 11 measure the sound pressure at their installation locations and obtain the measurement results as sound pressure data. At this time, the sensor devices 11 may obtain multiple sound pressure values consecutively within a predetermined period of time and use the average of the obtained multiple sound pressure values as the sound pressure data.

Each sensor device 11 transmits the measured sound pressure data as sensor information to the server 20. The information processing unit 21 of the server 20 receives the sound pressure data transmitted from each sensor device 11 and stores it in the memory unit 25, thereby acquiring the sound pressure data (step S12).

When sound pressure data is acquired, the information processing unit 21 identifies the installation location of the sensor device 11 that measured the acquired sound pressure data, and associates the acquired sound pressure data with the identified installation location (step S13). Specifically, the information processing unit 21 references the sensor device management information I1 and identifies the installation location associated with the address of the sender of the sound pressure data or the identification information of the sensor device 11 that acquired the sound pressure data. The information processing unit 21 associates the sound pressure data acquired in step S12 with the installation location identified above (i.e., the location where the sound pressure data was acquired). The information processing unit 21 also identifies the time when the sound pressure data was acquired from the sensor device 11, and associates the sound pressure data with the installation location.

Then, the information processing unit 21 generates a sound pressure distribution map DM for the predetermined area A by drawing a sound pressure distribution map on a map representing the predetermined area A based on the sound pressure data (sound pressure values) acquired from each sensor device 11 and the installation locations associated with the sound pressure data (locations where the sound pressure data was acquired) (step S14). For example, a distribution map DM can be generated in which the sound pressure distribution is color-coded for each sound pressure value on a map representing the predetermined area A, as shown in Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a sound pressure distribution map DM.

In this way, by generating a distribution diagram showing the sound pressure distribution in a specified area A based on the sound pressure data acquired by the acoustic sensors of each sensor device 11, it is possible to obtain data that maps the noise levels in the specified area A. As a result, it is possible to visually identify, for example, the source of a loud noise in the specified area A.

(5-3) System operation example 2
Operation example 2 of the system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing operation example 2 of the system 100. In operation example 2, a selected one of the multiple public-address devices 13 is made to amplify a predetermined sound at a specified time. In other words, operation example 2 enables the system 100 to realize time reservation for amplifying sound.

In operation example 2, first, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 selects the target loudspeaker sensor device 10 (loudspeaker device 13) to be amplified (step S21). The loudspeaker device 13 can be selected, for example, by displaying a list of loudspeaker device management information I2 on the server 20, and the user can select the desired loudspeaker sensor device 10 (loudspeaker device 13) according to the installation location of the information displayed in the list.

In addition, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 can also make a selection using a first screen GUI1 that includes a map showing a predetermined area A as shown in FIG. 11 and a display of the installation location of the loudspeaker sensor device 10 (loudspeaker device 13) (shown as a small circle in FIG. 11). FIG. 11 shows an example of the first screen GUI1 for selecting a loudspeaker. Specifically, a loudspeaker device 13 can be selected as follows.

First, the information processing unit 21 causes the server 20 to display the first screen GUI1. On the map displayed on the first screen GUI1, the user surrounds the partial area they wish to amplify with a predetermined figure AR1 (e.g., an ellipse). The information processing unit 21 accepts the selection of the partial area by the user's operation and identifies the location (address, latitude, longitude, etc.) of the partial area surrounded by the predetermined figure AR1 on the map displayed on the first screen GUI1. The information processing unit 21 references the loudspeaker management information I2 to identify the loudspeaker sensor device 10 (loudspeaker device 13) located at the identified position (partial area).

By using the first screen GUI1 as described above to select the public address system 13 from which the user wishes to amplify the sound, the user can more intuitively select the public address system 13 from which the user wishes to amplify the sound.

Note that the selection of the loudspeaker device 13 by direct input as described above and the selection of the loudspeaker device 13 using the first screen GUI1 can be performed not only on the server 20, but also using a user terminal 30 that has accessed the server 20.

After selecting the public address devices 13 for which the user wishes to amplify the sound, the information processing unit 21 sets the date and time for each selected public address device 13 to amplify the sound (time reservation) (step S22). The date and time for amplifying the sound can be set, for example, by having the server 20 display the identification information of the public address devices 13 selected in step S21, and having the user input the date and time for amplifying the sound for each of the displayed identification information of the public address devices 13.

In addition, the information processing unit 21 can also set the amplification date and time by using a second screen GUI2, as shown in FIG. 12, which displays a graph of the date and time for each selected public address device 13 (the identification information of the public address device 13 (public address A, public address B, public address C, public address D)). FIG. 12 shows an example of the second screen GUI2 for setting the amplification date and time. Specifically, the amplification date and time can be set as follows:

First, the information processing unit 21 causes the server 20 to display the second screen GUI2. On the first screen GUI1, the user operates the bar graph BA on a graph showing the amplification date and time for each public address device (identification information) to represent the range of dates and times for which the user wants the public address device 13 to amplify. The information processing unit 21 accepts the user's operation and identifies the amplification date and time for each public address device 13 based on the position and length of the bar graph BA.

By using the second screen GUI2 as described above to set the amplification date and time for each public address device 13, the amplification date and time for each public address device 13 can be intuitively set.

Note that the setting of the amplification date and time by direct input as described above, and the setting of the amplification date and time using the second screen GUI2, can be performed not only on the server 20, but also using a user terminal 30 that has accessed the server 20.

A specific GUI may also be used to select the audio data to be amplified by the selected loudspeaker 13. For example, the second screen GUI2 can be used to identify audio data stored on the server 20 or the like, thereby selecting the audio data to be amplified by the selected loudspeaker 13. The second screen GUI2 can also be used to select audio data stored on the user terminal 30. In this case, the selected audio data is uploaded to the server 20.

After selecting the public address device 13 to be amplified and setting the amplified date and time for the selected public address device 13, the information processing unit 21 determines whether each selected public address device 13 can be amplified on the set amplified date and time (step S23). For example, a public address device 13 that has already been scheduled for amplified operation on the set amplified date and time and/or a public address device 13 for which maintenance is scheduled for the set amplified date and time is determined to be unable to be amplified on the set amplified date and time.

If it is determined that the loudspeaker 13 cannot amplify the sound on the set date and time due to the reasons described above (such as a reservation already being made or maintenance being planned) ("No" in step S23), the information processing unit 21 decides not to amplify the sound on the set date and time for the loudspeaker devices 13 that it has determined cannot amplify the sound. Specifically, the audio data that was scheduled to be amplified will not be transmitted to the loudspeaker devices 13 that it has determined cannot amplify the sound. Furthermore, the information processing unit 21 may notify an error if there are any loudspeaker devices 13 that cannot amplify the sound on the set date and time. In this case, in addition to notifying the error, the information processing unit 21 may also notify the identification information of the loudspeaker devices 13 that cannot amplify the sound and the reason (cause) why the sound cannot be amplified.

On the other hand, if it is determined that amplification is possible on the set amplification date and time ("Yes" in step S23), the information processing unit 21 transmits to each loudspeaker 13 determined to be capable of amplification the amplification date and time set for that loudspeaker 13 and the audio data of the audio to be amplified by that loudspeaker 13 (step S24). For example, an audio file in which the audio data has been encoded in a predetermined encoding format and containerized is transmitted. This allows a time for amplification to be reserved for each loudspeaker 13 selected in step S21.

After reserving the amplification time, the amplification control unit 133 of the loudspeaker 13 receives the amplification date and time and the audio data and determines whether the current date and time is the set amplification date and time (step S25). If the current date and time is not the set amplification date and time (step S25: No), the loudspeaker control unit 133 waits until the amplification date and time arrives. At this time, the loudspeaker control unit 133 may output an audio signal converted from other audio data to the speaker 131 and perform an operation to amplify the other audio from the speaker 131.

On the other hand, if the current date and time is the set amplification date and time ("Yes" in step S25), the amplification control unit 133 plays back the audio data received in step S24, converts it into an audio signal, and outputs it to the speaker 131, thereby amplifying the audio that was scheduled to be amplified on the amplification date and time from the speaker 131 (step S26).

As described above, by amplifying a specified sound at a specified time using a selected loudspeaker 13 from among multiple loudspeakers 13, the sound can be amplified at a specified time to a specific location or partial area within the specified area A. For example, it is possible to make announcements, promotions, etc. about an event such as a festival to be held at a specific date and time in a specific partial area within the specified area A (e.g., a specific shopping district, a specific neighborhood).

(5-4) System operation example 3
Operation example 3 of the system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing operation example 3 of the system 100. In operation example 3, in accordance with sensor information obtained from a specific sensor device 11 among the multiple sensor devices 11, a selected one of the multiple public address devices 13 is caused to amplify sound related to the sensor information obtained from the specific sensor device 11. In other words, operation example 3 is an operation example in which the sensor device 11 and the public address device 13 work together.

Specifically, in operation example 3, the sensor 111 of each sensor device 11 is an acoustic sensor, and when the acoustic sensor detects the first sound, the second sound is amplified by a public address system installed in a location where the person associated with the first sound is present. Below, operation example 3 is described in which the first sound is a sound calling for help, such as a scream, the person associated with the first sound is a police officer rescuing the person who made the sound, and the second sound is a sound calling for help from a police officer (for example, a sound saying, "A scream has been detected near XX. Please rush.").

In operation example 3, first, when a voice is detected by one of the multiple sensor devices 11 installed in a predetermined area A ("Yes" in step S31), the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 receives the voice data of the voice and analyzes the received voice data (step S32). As a result of analyzing the received voice data, the information processing unit 21 determines whether the detected voice is a voice calling for help (first voice) (step S33).

If the voice detected by any of the sensor devices 11 is determined to be a voice calling for help ("Yes" in step S33), the information processing unit 21 identifies the installation location of the sensor device 11 (loudspeaker sensor device 10) that detected the voice calling for help based on the address of the sender of the received voice data or the identification information of the sensor device 11 and the sensor device management information I1 (step S34). For example, as shown in Figure 14, if the voice is emitted at position P1 in a specified area A, the installation location of the loudspeaker sensor device 10 (sensor device 11) surrounded by a dashed line is identified. Figure 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating operation example 3.

Furthermore, when a voice calling for help is detected, the information processing unit 21 identifies the location (i.e., a police box, police station, etc.) of the person associated with the voice calling for help (i.e., a police officer rescuing the person who made the voice calling for help) (step S35). The information processing unit 21 identifies the location P2 of the police box closest to location P1, for example, using a location search program or the like. The identified location P2 may be the address of location P2, or the latitude and longitude of location P2.

After identifying position P2, the information processing unit 21 identifies the loudspeaker 13 (loudspeaker sensor device 10) installed at or near position P2 (step S36). Specifically, the information processing unit 21 references the loudspeaker management information I2 and identifies (the identification information of) the loudspeaker 13 associated with the installation location closest to position P2. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, when position P2 in a predetermined area A is identified, the loudspeaker sensor device 10 (loudspeaker device 13) surrounded by a dashed line is identified.

After identifying a public address device 13 (loud address sensor device 10) installed at or near position P2, the information processing unit 21 transmits audio data of a voice (second voice) requesting assistance from a police officer to the identified public address device 13. Upon receiving the audio data, the public address device 13 amplifies the voice requesting assistance from a police officer throughout position P2 and its vicinity (step S37).

As described above, when a first sound is detected by an acoustic sensor of one of the multiple sensor devices 11, a second sound is amplified by the public address system 13 installed at the location where the person associated with the first sound is located, thereby allowing the person associated with the first sound, who is located at a distance from the location where the first sound was emitted, to be aware that the first sound was emitted. For example, when a sound calling for help, such as a scream, is emitted, a police officer located at a distance from the location where the sound was emitted can be made aware that a sound calling for help was emitted. As a result, for example, the police officer can take action, such as providing first aid to the person who made the sound calling for help.

(5-5) System Operation Example 4
Operation Example 4 of the system 100 will be described below with reference to FIG. 15 . FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating Operation Example 4 of the system 100. In Operation Example 4, the above-described Operation Example 3 is executed to identify a position P1 where the first sound was detected and a position P2 where a person related to the first sound is present. Furthermore, a third sound related to the first sound is amplified by the loudspeaker 13 installed on a path from the installation position (i.e., position P2) of the loudspeaker 13 that amplified the second sound to the installation position (i.e., position P1) of the sensor device 11 having the acoustic sensor that detected the first sound. The third sound is, for example, a sound requesting a person present on the path from position P2 to position P1 to respond to the detected sound calling for help (e.g., a sound requesting the person present on the path to call a police box or a sound alerting a person present on the path).

In operation example 4, first, operation example 3 described above is executed (step S41). The operation of system 100 in operation example 3 has already been explained, so its explanation will be omitted here. By executing operation example 3, the installation location of sensor device 11 (loudspeaker sensor device 10) installed at or near location P1 where the voice calling for help was emitted, and location P2 where police officers are present to provide rescue to the person who made the voice calling for help are identified.

After executing Operation Example 3, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 uses a route search program to search for a route from location P2, where a police officer is located, to location P1, where the voice calling for help was emitted (step S41). By executing step S41, a route such as that shown by the bold line in Figure 16 is searched for, for example. Figure 16 is a diagram schematically illustrating Operation Example 4.

After searching for the route from position P2 to position P1, the information processing unit 21 identifies the public address devices 13 (loudspeaker sensor devices 10) installed on or near the route (step S43). Specifically, the information processing unit 21 represents the searched route as a point cloud of coordinate points (e.g., coordinate points consisting of latitude and longitude), and refers to the public address device management information I2 to identify one or more public address devices 13 installed at each point on the searched route or at an installation position near that point. For example, in Figure 16, the public address devices 13 (loudspeaker sensor devices 10) represented by the points highlighted in black can be identified.

After identifying a public address device 13 (loud address sensor device 10) installed on or near the searched route, the information processing unit 21 transmits audio data (third audio) to the identified public address device 13, such as an audio requesting a police station to be notified, or an audio warning to people on the route. Upon receiving the audio data, the public address device 13 amplifies the audio requesting a police station to be notified, or an audio warning to people on the route, toward the searched route (step S44).

As described above, by identifying the location P1 where the first sound was detected and the location P2 where the person associated with the first sound is located, a third sound related to the first sound can be amplified by a loudspeaker 13 installed on the path from the location of the loudspeaker 13 that amplified the second sound to the location of the sensor device 11 having the acoustic sensor that detected the first sound, allowing people on that path to be aware that the first sound has been emitted. For example, if a sound calling for help, such as a scream, is emitted, people on the path from a police box where a police officer is present to the location where the first sound was emitted can be made aware that a sound calling for help has been emitted. As a result, people on that path can, for example, respond to the sound calling for help by calling the police box.

(5-6) System Operation Example 5
Operation example 5 of the system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing operation example 5 of the system 100. In operation example 5, operation example 3 described above is executed to identify position P1 where the first sound is detected and position P2 where a person associated with the first sound is present, identify loudspeaker devices 13 installed on a route from position P2 to position P1, and when the person associated with the first sound approaches any of the identified loudspeaker devices 13, cause the loudspeaker device 13 to louden a sound providing route guidance to position P1.

In Operation Example 5, first, Operation Example 3 described above is executed (Step S51). The operation of system 100 in Operation Example 3 has already been explained, so its explanation will be omitted here. After executing Operation Example 3, the information processing unit 21 of server 20 uses a route search program to search for a route from position P2 to position P1 and identify a public address device 13 (public address sensor device 10) installed on or near that route (Steps S52 to S53). The operation of Steps S52 to S53 is the same as the operation of Steps S42 to S43 in Operation Example 4, so its explanation will be omitted here.

After identifying a public address device 13 (loud address sensor device 10) installed on or near the searched route, the information processing unit 21 tracks the location of the police officer heading to rescue the person who made the voice calling for help (i.e., the person associated with the first voice) (step S54). This tracking can be achieved, for example, by having the police officer carry a wireless tag such as an RF tag and having the wireless tag detected by an RFID transmitter installed on the utility pole P and/or overhead line L.

The information processing unit 21 determines, as a result of the tracking, whether the police officer is approaching any of the loudspeaker devices 13 installed on the route from position P2 to position P1 (step S55). Whether the police officer is approaching a loudspeaker 13 is determined by comparing the position of the police officer detected by tracking with the installation position of the loudspeaker 13 identified in step S53, and if these positions match or are close, it can be determined that the police officer is approaching a loudspeaker 13.

If a police officer is approaching the loudspeaker 13 ("Yes" in step S55), the information processing unit 21 causes the loudspeaker 13 that the police officer is approaching to amplify directions to position P1 (step S56). The information processing unit 21 transmits audio data of audio guidance such as "Turn right at the intersection. Continue straight for 200 meters" or "You will soon be near the scene" to the loudspeaker 13 that the police officer is approaching, and the loudspeaker control unit 133 of the loudspeaker 13 converts this audio data into an audio signal and outputs it to the speaker 131, thereby amplifying the above-mentioned directions to the police officer's location.

While tracking the police officer's position, the information processing unit 21 determines whether the police officer has arrived at position P1 (step S57). The information processing unit 21 can determine that the police officer has arrived at position P1 if the position of the police officer detected by tracking coincides with or is extremely close to position P1.

If it is determined that a police officer has arrived at position P1 (i.e., the position where the voice calling for help was emitted) ("Yes" in step S57), tracking of the police officer is stopped, and the operation of operation example 5 is stopped. On the other hand, if it is determined that a police officer has not arrived at position P1 ("No" in step S57), the above steps S54 to S57 are repeatedly executed. In other words, the information processing unit 21 tracks the police officer, and when the police officer approaches a loudspeaker 13, it causes the loudspeaker 13 that the police officer is approaching to loudspeaker 13 to loudly announce directions.

As described above, by identifying location P1 where the first sound was detected and location P2 where the person associated with the first sound is located, and identifying the loudspeaker devices 13 installed on the route from location P2 to location P1, and by having the loudspeaker device 13 emit a sound providing directions to location P1 when the person associated with the first sound approaches one of the identified loudspeaker devices 13, the person associated with the first sound can be reliably guided to location P1. For example, if a sound calling for help, such as a scream, is heard, a police officer can be reliably guided to location P1 from which the sound was heard.

(5-7) System Operation Example 6
Operation example 6 of the system 100 will be described below with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing operation example 6 of the system 100. In operation example 6, the sensor 111 of the sensor device 11 is an acoustic sensor, and when the acoustic sensor detects a voice relating to route guidance to a specific place in a predetermined area A, a loudspeaker installed on a route from the installation position of the sensor device 11 having the acoustic sensor that detected the voice to the specific place (target position) is caused to loudspeaker the voice providing route guidance to the specific place.

In operation example 6, first, when a voice is detected by one of the multiple sensor devices 11 installed in a predetermined area A ("Yes" in step S61), the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 receives the voice data of the voice and analyzes the received voice data (step S62). As a result of analyzing the received voice data, the information processing unit 21 determines whether the detected voice is a voice requesting route guidance (step S63). A voice requesting route guidance is, for example, a voice that says, "Tell me the way to XX."

If it is determined that the voice detected by any of the sensor devices 11 is a voice requesting route guidance ("Yes" in step S63), the information processing unit 21 identifies the installation location of the sensor device 11 (loudspeaker sensor device 10) that detected the voice requesting route guidance based on the address of the sender of the received voice data or the identification information of the sensor device 11 and the sensor device management information I1 (step S64). The information processing unit 21 also analyzes the received voice to identify the target location where the person requesting route guidance wants to go.

Next, the information processing unit 21 searches for a route from the identified installation location of the sensor device 11 (i.e., the current location of the person who requested route guidance) to the identified target location (step S65). The information processing unit 21 searches for a route from the identified installation location of the sensor device 11 to the target location, for example, using a route search program or the like.

After searching for a route from the installation location of the sensor device 11 to the target location, the information processing unit 21 identifies a public address device 13 (loud address sensor device 10) installed on or near the route (step S66). After identifying a public address device 13 installed on or near the searched route, the information processing unit 21 tracks the location of the person who requested route guidance (step S67). This tracking can be achieved, for example, by determining whether the person who requested route guidance is included in an image captured by a camera or the like along the route. If the person who requested route guidance is included in this image, the installation location of the camera that captured the image can be identified as the location of the person who requested route guidance.

Based on the results of the tracking, the information processing unit 21 determines whether the person requesting directions is approaching one of the loudspeaker devices 13 installed on the route to the target location (step S68). If the person requesting directions is approaching a loudspeaker device 13 (step S68: Yes), the information processing unit 21 causes the loudspeaker device 13 that the person requesting directions is approaching to amplify directions to the target location (step S69). The information processing unit 21 transmits audio data of audio guidance such as "Turn left at the next intersection," "Go east 100 meters," or "The building across the street is the target location" to the loudspeaker device 13 that the person requesting directions is approaching. The loudspeaker control unit 133 of the loudspeaker device 13 converts this audio data into an audio signal and outputs it to the speaker 131, thereby amplifying the above-mentioned directions to the person requesting directions.

While tracking the location of the person who has requested directions, the information processing unit 21 determines whether this person has arrived at the target location (step S70). If it is determined that the person who has requested directions has arrived at the target location ("Yes" in step S70), tracking of this person is stopped, and the operation of Operation Example 6 is stopped. On the other hand, if it is determined that the person who has requested directions has not arrived at the target location ("No" in step S70), the above steps S67 to S70 are repeatedly executed. In other words, the information processing unit 21 tracks the person who has requested directions, and if this person approaches a loudspeaker 13, it causes the loudspeaker 13 that the person has approached to loudspeaker the directions.

As described above, when audio providing directions to a specific location in a specified area A is detected, audio providing directions to the target location can be amplified by a loudspeaker installed on the route from the installation location of the sensor device 11, which has the acoustic sensor that detected the audio, to the target location, thereby reliably guiding the person requesting directions to the target location.

As described above, in the system 100, multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 (sensor devices 11, loudspeaker devices 13) that acquire sensor information in a predetermined area A and loudspeaker it throughout the predetermined area A are installed on at least some of the multiple utility poles P in the predetermined area A and/or at least some of the overhead lines L installed on the multiple utility poles P. Generally, utility poles P and overhead lines L are installed throughout a predetermined area A where people gather, such as in urban areas or shopping districts. Utility poles P and overhead lines L are installed particularly on or near paths along which people move, such as roads. For this reason, installing loudspeaker sensor devices 10 on utility poles P and/or overhead lines L makes it easy to install loudspeaker sensor devices 10 throughout a predetermined area. In particular, loudspeaker sensor devices 10 can be easily installed throughout a predetermined area, such as in locations along paths along which people move, such as roads within the predetermined area A, or near such locations.

In addition, in the system 100, the server 20 manages the installation locations of multiple loudspeaker sensor devices 10 (sensor devices 11, loudspeaker devices 13). The server 20 acquires sensor information from any of the multiple sensor devices 11 and associates the acquired sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device 11 that acquired it. The server 20 also selects a loudspeaker device 13 installed in a specific position or partial area within the specified area A and commands the selected loudspeaker device 13 to amplify the sound. This allows the server 20 to provide a variety of useful services related to the specified area A, such as services that use sensor information acquired in the specified area A and services that amplify various sounds to people present in the specified area A. For example, it can provide services such as those described in operation examples 1 to 6 above.

2. Second Embodiment (1) Overview The sensor information collected by the sensor device 11 of the system 100 can be used for various purposes other than amplification from the loudspeaker 13. For example, as shown in FIG. 19 , the system 100 can output the sensor information to another system (referred to as a linked system 200) connected via a network N and operate in collaboration with the linked system 200. The linked system 200 is, for example, a system operated by a service provider that provides various services different from the system 100 by collecting sensor information using the sensor device 11 and amplifying the information using the loudspeaker 13. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the configuration of a system in the second embodiment.

In the second embodiment, system 100 periodically or irregularly transmits (provides) sensor information collected and organized based on the above-described operational example to linked system 200. Linked system 200 executes various services using the sensor information received (provided) from system 100. In this way, system 100 can provide the collected and organized sensor information to the outside for the purpose of linking with external services. An example of collaboration between system 100 and linked system 200 in the second embodiment is described below.

(2) Collaboration example 1
The system 100 can be linked with, for example, a linkage system 200 that provides various services using drones. The linkage system 200 includes one or more drone ports that serve as takeoff and landing points for drones (unmanned aerial vehicles), and flies drones waiting at the drone ports toward specific locations. The drones have, for example, cargo transport mechanisms.

In collaboration example 1, based on operation example 3 described in the first embodiment, after identifying the installation location of the sensor device 11 that detected the first audio, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 of the system 100 transmits information about the identified installation location to the collaboration system 200. The collaboration system 200 sets the installation location of the sensor device 11 received from the system 100 as the landing target location for the drone, and flies the drone from the drone port. With the landing target location set, the drone uses its cargo transport mechanism to fly and transport materials that are deemed to be highly necessary in accordance with the event identified from the first audio to the landing target location.

In collaboration example 1, an event that can be identified from the first audio is, for example, the occurrence of a sudden illness. Furthermore, an example of the supplies to be transported by drone is an AED (Automated External Defibrillator).

By linking in this way, if there is a person in need of AED treatment (for example, a person who is suddenly ill) within a specified area A, assistance can be provided to that person promptly.

(3) Collaboration example 2
System 100 can be linked with linkage system 200, which is installed in a building or the like within a predetermined area A and broadcasts within the building. Linkage system 200 includes a sound source (audio data) for broadcasting within the building, an audio amplifier, and one or more speakers. Linkage system 200 has the function of amplifying the sound source with the audio amplifier and broadcasting it through the speakers.

In collaboration example 2, when a sensor device 11 of system 100 detects a predetermined event, the information processing unit 21 of server 20 of system 100 identifies the installation location of the sensor device 11 that detected the event and transmits information about this installation location to collaboration system 200. Collaboration system 200, which is installed in a building near the installation location of sensor device 11 (for example, within a predetermined distance from the installation location of sensor device 11), broadcasts a loudspeaker announcement within the building to announce the occurrence of the event detected by sensor device 11. In collaboration example 2, an event is, for example, a fire, accident, or incident.

By linking in this way, when an event occurs within a specified area A that should be made known to people, the information can be communicated not only to people outdoors using the loudspeaker 13, but also to people in nearby buildings using the linking system 200.

(4) Collaboration example 3
The system 100 can be linked to a linked system 200 that provides a real estate service that assesses the value of land based on the area environment, such as noise. The linked system 200 is, for example, a system that allows a real estate agent to manage properties.

In collaboration example 3, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 of the system 100 transmits information about the sound pressure distribution within a predetermined area A, generated based on operation example 1 described in the first embodiment, to the collaboration system 200. The collaboration system 200 determines the noise level within the predetermined area A from the received sound pressure distribution (noise level) information, and can use this information to visualize the noise situation in the area where managed properties are located within the predetermined area A, or for land appraisals.

(5) Collaboration example 4
The system 100 can be linked with a linkage system 200 of an organization such as a government agency that carries out urban planning, for example. In Linkage Example 4, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 of the system 100 transmits information about the sound pressure distribution within a predetermined area A, which is generated based on Operation Example 1 described in the first embodiment, to the linkage system 200. The information is provided to the linkage system 200. The linkage system 200 can grasp the urban environment within the predetermined area A from the received information about the sound pressure distribution and use it for decision-making regarding urban planning and environmental policies.

(6) Collaboration example 5
The system 100 can be linked with an linked system 200 that handles, for example, taxi dispatching and advertisement provision. In Linkage Example 5, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 of the system 100 transmits information about the sound pressure distribution within a predetermined area A, which is generated based on Operation Example 1 described in the first embodiment, to the linked system 200. The linked system 200 can grasp the number of people and the state of activity within the predetermined area A from the information about the sound pressure distribution, and can use this information to formulate taxi dispatch plans and advertisement provision plans.

(7) Collaboration example 6
The system 100 can be linked with an linked system 200 that, for example, monitors traffic conditions and controls traffic signals when emergency vehicles are traveling. In Linkage Example 6, the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 of the system 100 transmits information about the sound pressure distribution within a predetermined area A, which is generated based on Operation Example 1 described in the first embodiment, to the linked system 200. The linked system 200 can grasp the traffic conditions within the predetermined area A from the information about the sound pressure distribution and use it for visualizing the traffic conditions and controlling traffic signals.

While one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment and various modifications are possible. In particular, multiple embodiments and modifications described in this specification can be combined as needed.
(A) The sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 do not have to be integrated into the loudspeaker sensor device 10. That is, the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 may be separate devices. When the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 are separate devices, the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 may each have a power supply unit that supplies driving power.

(B) When the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 are separate devices, the installation positions of the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 can be set arbitrarily. For example, as shown in FIG. 20, both the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 may be installed on a utility pole P, and the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 may be installed alternately on the overhead line L. The positional relationship between the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13 on the utility pole P can be, for example, as shown in FIG. 20, such that the loudspeaker 13 is on the upper side of the utility pole P and the sensor device 11 is on the lower side of the utility pole P. This positional relationship may also be reversed. FIG. 20 shows another example of installation of the sensor device 11 and the loudspeaker 13.

Furthermore, for example, loudspeaker devices 13 and sensor devices 11 may be installed alternately in a predetermined area A, such as by installing loudspeaker devices 13 on utility poles P and sensor devices 11 on overhead lines L.

(C) System 100 may be capable of executing all of operation examples 1 to 6 described above, or may be capable of executing only some of them.

(D) In the above-described operation example 2, the amplification date and time and audio data were transmitted to the loudspeaker 13, and the loudspeaker control unit 133 of the loudspeaker 13 determined that the amplification date and time had arrived and amplified the audio data. This is not limiting; the information processing unit 21 of the server 20 may determine that the amplification date and time has arrived and, when the amplification date and time arrives, transmit the audio data to be amplified to the target loudspeaker 13. In this case, the loudspeaker control unit 133 of the loudspeaker 13 may immediately play the audio data upon receiving it from the server 20. Alternatively, the information processing unit 21 may stream the audio data to the loudspeaker 13 using a predetermined protocol, such as RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol).

(E) Watermark information using audio watermarking may be embedded in the audio amplified from the loudspeaker 13. The watermark information is, for example, information that can be decoded by vehicles or service robots traveling near the utility pole P and/or overhead wire L, and is a signal that generates some kind of instruction for the vehicle or service robot.

4. Features of the Present Disclosure (1) A system (e.g., system 100) includes a plurality of sensor devices (e.g., loudspeaker sensor device 10, sensor device 11), a plurality of loudspeaker devices (e.g., loudspeaker sensor device 10, loudspeaker device 13), and a server (e.g., server 20). The plurality of sensor devices are provided on at least some of a plurality of utility poles (e.g., utility pole P) and/or at least some of the overhead lines (e.g., overhead lines L) installed on the plurality of utility poles in a predetermined area (e.g., predetermined area A), and acquire predetermined sensor information in the predetermined area. The plurality of loudspeaker devices are provided on at least some of the plurality of utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines, and loudspeak toward the predetermined area. The server controls the plurality of sensor devices and the plurality of loudspeaker devices.

In the above system, the server manages the installation locations of multiple sensor devices and multiple public address systems within a specified area. The server acquires sensor information from one of the multiple sensor devices and associates the sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device that acquired it. The server also selects a public address system installed at a specific position or within a partial area within the specified area and commands the selected public address system to amplify its sound.

In the above system, multiple sensor devices that acquire sensor information in a specified area and multiple loudspeaker devices that amplify the information in the specified area are installed on at least some of the multiple utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines installed on the multiple utility poles in the specified area. Utility poles and overhead lines are generally installed throughout a specified area where people gather, such as in urban areas or shopping districts. Utility poles and overhead lines are particularly installed on or near roads and other routes along which people move. Therefore, by installing sensor devices and loudspeaker devices on utility poles and/or overhead lines, it is possible to easily install sensor devices and loudspeaker devices throughout a specified area. In particular, it is possible to easily install sensor information and loudspeaker devices throughout a specified area, such as in roads and other locations along which people may move.

In the above system, the server manages the installation locations of multiple sensor devices and multiple loudspeaker devices. The server acquires sensor information from any of the multiple sensor devices and associates the acquired sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device that acquired it. The server also selects loudspeaker devices installed at specific positions or partial areas within a specified area and commands the selected loudspeaker devices to amplify the sound. This allows the server to provide a variety of useful services related to the specified area, such as services using sensor information acquired in the specified area and services that amplify various sounds to people present in the specified area.

(2) In the system described in (1) above, the server may instruct a selected one of the multiple public address systems to amplify a specified sound at a specified time. This makes it possible, for example, to make announcements and promotions about an event such as a festival to be held at a specific date and time in a specific sub-area within a specific area (e.g., a specific shopping district or a specific neighborhood).

(3) In the system described in (1) or (2) above, the server may provide a map showing a predetermined area, accept the selection of a specific subarea within the predetermined area using the map, and instruct the public address systems included in the specific subarea to amplify a predetermined sound. This allows for intuitive selection of the public address system to amplify the sound.

(4) In any of the systems (1) to (3) above, the sensor device may include an acoustic sensor. In this case, the server may generate a distribution map (e.g., distribution map DM) showing the sound pressure distribution in a specified area based on the sound pressure data acquired by the acoustic sensor. This makes it possible to acquire data that maps the noise levels in a specified area. As a result, it is possible to visually identify, for example, the locations in a specified area that are sources of loud noise.

(5) In any of the systems (1) to (4) above, the server may cause a selected one of the multiple public address systems to amplify audio related to the sensor information obtained from a specific sensor device, depending on the sensor information obtained from the specific sensor device. This makes it possible to provide various services that utilize the sensor devices and public address systems in cooperation with each other.

(6) In the system described in (5) above, the sensor device may include an acoustic sensor. In this case, when the acoustic sensor detects the first sound, the server may instruct a loudspeaker installed in a location where a person associated with the first sound is present to amplify the second sound. This allows a person associated with the first sound, who is located away from the location where the first sound was emitted, to recognize that the first sound has been emitted.

(7) In the system described in (6) above, the server may instruct a loudspeaker installed on a path from the installation location of the loudspeaker that loudspeaked the second sound to the installation location of the sensor device having the acoustic sensor that detected the first sound to loudspeak a third sound related to the first sound. This allows people present on the path from the location where the second sound was loudened to the location where the first sound was detected to be aware that the first sound has been emitted.

(8) In the systems described in (6) or (7) above, the server may instruct a loudspeaker installed on a route from the installation location of the loudspeaker that loudspeaked the second sound to the installation location of the sensor device having the acoustic sensor that detected the first sound to loudspeaker audio providing route guidance to the installation location of the sensor device having the acoustic sensor that detected the first sound. This allows the person associated with the first sound to be reliably guided to the location where the first sound was detected.

(9) In any of the systems (5) to (8) above, the sensor device may have an acoustic sensor. In this case, when the acoustic sensor detects audio related to route guidance to a specific location in a predetermined area, the server may instruct a public address system installed on the route from the installation location of the sensor device having the acoustic sensor that detected the audio to the specific location to amplify audio providing route guidance to the specific location. This allows the person who requested route guidance to be reliably guided to the target location they wish to reach.

(10) A server (e.g., server 20) is a server that controls multiple sensor devices (e.g., loudspeaker sensor device 10, sensor device 11) and multiple loudspeaker devices (e.g., loudspeaker sensor device 10, loudspeaker device 13) in a system (e.g., system 100) that includes these devices. The multiple sensor devices are installed on at least some of the multiple utility poles (e.g., utility pole P) and/or at least some of the overhead lines (e.g., overhead line L) installed on the multiple utility poles in a predetermined area (e.g., predetermined area A), and acquire predetermined sensor information in the predetermined area. The multiple loudspeaker devices are installed on at least some of the multiple utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines, and amplify sounds toward the predetermined area.

The server includes a memory unit (e.g., memory unit 25) and an information processing unit (e.g., information processing unit 21). The memory unit stores management information (e.g., sensor device management information I1, loudspeaker management information I2) that manages the installation locations of multiple sensor devices and multiple public address devices in a specified area. The information processing unit acquires sensor information from one of the multiple sensor devices and associates the sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device from which it was acquired. It also selects a public address device installed in a specific position or partial area within the specified area and commands the selected public address device to amplify its sound.

In a system comprising multiple sensor devices and multiple loudspeaker devices installed on multiple utility poles and/or overhead lines, a server that controls these devices manages the installation locations of the multiple sensor devices and multiple loudspeaker devices as management information. The server's information processing unit acquires sensor information from any of the multiple sensor devices and associates the acquired sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device that acquired it. The information processing unit also selects a loudspeaker device installed at a specific position or partial area within a specified area and commands the selected loudspeaker device to amplify the sound. This allows the server to provide a variety of useful services related to the specified area, such as services using sensor information acquired in the specified area and services that amplify various sounds to people, etc. present in the specified area.

The system disclosed herein can be widely applied to systems that acquire sensor information and amplify specified audio.

100: System 10: Public address sensor device 11: Sensor device 111: Sensor 113: Data generation unit 115: First communication unit 13: Public address device 131: Speaker 133: Public address control unit 135: Second communication unit 15: Power supply unit 20: Server 21: Information processing unit 23: Third communication unit 25: Memory unit I1: Sensor device management information C11: First identification information storage column C12: First installation position storage column C13: First address storage column I2: Public address device management information C21: Second identification information storage column C22: Second installation position storage column C23: Second address storage column 30: User terminal 200: Linkage system N: Network A: Predetermined area L: Overhead line P: Utility pole

Claims (9)

a plurality of sensor devices provided on at least some of a plurality of utility poles provided in a predetermined area and/or at least some of the overhead lines installed on the plurality of utility poles, the sensor devices acquiring predetermined sensor information in the predetermined area;
a plurality of public address devices provided on at least some of the utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines, and configured to amplify sounds toward the predetermined area;
a server that controls a plurality of sensor devices and a plurality of loudspeaker devices;
The server
managing the installation positions of a plurality of sensor devices and a plurality of loudspeaker devices in the predetermined area;
acquiring sensor information from any one of the plurality of sensor devices, and associating the sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device that acquired the sensor information;
The method is configured to select a public address system installed in a specific position or a partial area within the predetermined area and instruct the selected public address system to amplify the sound;
When it is determined that a request for rescue has been detected in the vicinity of a first sensor device based on sensor information acquired from the first sensor device among the plurality of sensor devices, one or more loudspeakers are identified among the plurality of loudspeakers according to a location where a rescuer who can respond to the request for rescue is present, and an instruction is given to the identified loudspeakers to make a sound related to the rescue.
system. the sensor device includes an acoustic sensor;
The system according to claim 1 , wherein the server determines that the request for help has been detected when the first sensor device detects a first voice requesting help. The system described in claim 1, wherein the server identifies a first loudspeaker among the plurality of loudspeakers that is installed near the location of the rescuer, and instructs the first loudspeaker to louden a second voice requesting help from the rescuer . the server identifies one or more second loudspeakers among the plurality of loudspeakers that are installed on a path from the installation position of the first sensor device to the installation position of the first loudspeaker;
The system according to claim 3 , further comprising an instruction to the second public address system to issue a third voice message requesting the rescuer to respond to the rescue . the server identifies one or more second loudspeakers among the plurality of loudspeakers that are installed on a path from the installation position of the first sensor device to the installation position of the first loudspeaker;
The system according to claim 3 , further comprising an instruction to the second loudspeaker device to loudspeak a third voice that guides the rescuer to the location where the first sensor device is installed. the server transmits information indicating an installation position of the first sensor device to an external linkage system connected via a network;
The system according to claim 1 , wherein the coordination system executes the coordination operation related to the rescue based on information indicating an installation position of the first sensor device received from the server . the linkage system has a function of managing mobile objects capable of transporting cargo,
The system described in claim 6, wherein the coordination system performs the coordination operation of moving the mobile body transporting the supplies to be used for the rescue to the installation location of the first sensor device indicated in the information received from the server . the linkage system has a function of making public address broadcasts within the building premises,
The system described in claim 6, wherein the collaboration system performs the collaboration operation of making a loudspeaker broadcast related to the rescue within the premises of a building located near the installation location of the first sensor device indicated in the information received from the server . In a system including a plurality of sensor devices that are provided on at least some of a plurality of utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines installed on the plurality of utility poles in a predetermined area, and that acquire predetermined sensor information in the predetermined area, and a plurality of loudspeaker devices that are provided on at least some of the plurality of utility poles and/or at least some of the overhead lines, and that loudspeaker devices that loudspeak toward the predetermined area, a server that controls the plurality of sensor devices and the plurality of loudspeaker devices,
A storage unit and an information processing unit are provided,
the storage unit stores management information for managing installation positions of a plurality of sensor devices and a plurality of loudspeaker devices in the predetermined area;
The information processing unit
acquiring sensor information from any one of the plurality of sensor devices, and associating the sensor information with the installation location of the sensor device that acquired the sensor information;
The method is configured to select a public address system installed in a specific position or a partial area within the predetermined area and instruct the selected public address system to amplify the sound;
When it is determined that a request for rescue has been detected in the vicinity of a first sensor device based on sensor information acquired from the first sensor device among the plurality of sensor devices, one or more loudspeakers are identified among the plurality of loudspeakers according to a location where a rescuer who can respond to the request for rescue is present, and an instruction is given to the identified loudspeakers to make a sound related to the rescue.
server.